True Colors Staff

Kenny Leon

Founder & Artistic Director

Kenny Leon (Director) is a Tony Award winning Broadway and film director. His Broadway credits include the 2014 revival of A Raisin in the Sun (Tony Award Winner for Best Direction of a Play and Best Revival), The Mountaintop starring Samuel L. Jackson and Angela Bassett, Stick Fly produced by Alicia Keys, August Wilson’s Fences (which garnered ten Tony nominations and won three Tony Awards including Best Revival), the 2004 revival of A Raisin in the Sun with Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs, Gem of the Ocean, Radio Golfand the 2014 premiere of Holler If Ya Hear Me, a new musical inspired by the lyrics of Tupac Shakur. Leon’s recent film work includes “In My Dreams” for Hallmark Hall of Fame, “The Watsons go to Birmingham” for Walden Media and Hallmark, and the Sony and Lifetime TV adaptation of “Steel Magnolias”. Leon was awarded the 2010 Julia Hansen Award for Excellence in Directing by the Drama League of New York.

Kenny Leon | Founder & Artistic Director

Kenny Leon (Director) is a Tony Award winning Broadway and film director. His Broadway credits include the 2014 revival of A Raisin in the Sun (Tony Award Winner for Best Direction of a Play and Best Revival), The Mountaintop starring Samuel L. Jackson and Angela Bassett, Stick Fly produced by Alicia Keys, August Wilson’s Fences (which garnered ten Tony nominations and won three Tony Awards including Best Revival), the 2004 revival of A Raisin in the Sun with Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs, Gem of the Ocean, Radio Golf and the 2014 premiere of Holler If Ya Hear Me, a new musical inspired by the lyrics of Tupac Shakur. Leon’s recent film work includes “In My Dreams” for Hallmark Hall of Fame, “The Watsons go to Birmingham” for Walden Media and Hallmark, and the Sony and Lifetime TV adaptation of “Steel Magnolias”. Leon was awarded the 2010 Julia Hansen Award for Excellence in Directing by the Drama League of New York.

Prior to co-founding True Colors Theatre Company, he served 11 years as Artistic Director of The Alliance Theatre, where he produced the premieres of Disney’s Elaborate Lives: The Legend of Aida, Pearl Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky and Alfred Uhry’s The Last Night of Ballyhoo. Other directorial credits include Toni Morrison’s opera Margaret Garner, the world premiere of Flashdance: The Musical, and the complete August Wilson Century Cycle at the Kennedy Center. He has directed extensively throughout the US, including Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, Boston’s Huntington Theatre, Baltimore’s Center Stage, Los Angeles’ Center Theatre Group and New York’s Public Theatre. Mr. Leon is an alumnus of Clark Atlanta University.

Jane Bishop | Co-Founder

In Loving Memory we will always remember Jane. We are all blessed that she launched True Colors with her longtime friend and colleague, Kenny Leon. Her dream was a theater that looks like the world, and her best and favorite work is making people bigger and things work better. We continue to work to make these dreams come true and make Jane proud.

Jane received an MA in Theatre Education and an MFA in Directing from Illinois State University where she studied in a class of aspiring actors and directors, which included John Malkovitch, Laurie Metcalf, Gary Sinese, and Terry Kinny.

During her career in theater, she was a teacher, director, stage manager, production manager, general manager, and managing director. Among the theatres and projects where she served as production manager were Just Us Theatre, Imaginary Theatre, Company Showcase Cabaret, Theater of the Stars, and Atlanta Writers in Concert, all in Atlanta and The San Jose Repertory Company in California. For seven years she was production manager of the Arts Festival of Atlanta and two years was co-producing director. She was production manager for First Night Atlanta, the New Year’s Eve celebration in Midtown Atlanta. Jane served as project manager for a variety of national and international events such as the 1996 Olympics’ Victory Ceremonies and The Coca-Cola Centennial Celebration. She was the Alliance Theater’s project manager for Elaborate Lives: The Story of Aida, an Alliance/Disney co-production of a new musical by Elton John and Tim Rice.

For nine years Jane served as General Manager of the Alliance Theatre where she worked with Managing Director Edith Love and Artistic Director Kenny Leon. It was during this time that she and Edith initiated a team leadership approach to the earned and contributed revenue aspects of the theatre, which resulted in a staff process of articulating values inherent in the Alliance.

In 1999, Jane became Managing Director of the Prince Music Theater in Philadelphia. She directed the areas of finance, administration, production, marketing, and the newly renovated 450-seat theatre. Her goal there was to create a stable, experienced, and inspired staff and advance the artistic vision of the Prince.

She taught stage management at Georgia State University and theatre administration at La Grange College and consulted with Dallas Theater Center, Indiana Repertory Theatre, and the National Black Arts Festival.

Jane Bishop

Co-Founder

In Loving Memory. We will always remember Jane. We are all blessed that she launched True Colors with her longtime friend and colleague, Kenny Leon. Her dream was a theater that looks like the world, and her best and favorite work was making people bigger and things work better. We continue to work to make these dreams come true and make Jane proud.

Jane received an MA in Theatre Education and an MFA in Directing from Illinois State University where she studied in a class of aspiring actors and directors, which included John Malkovitch, Laurie Metcalf, Gary Sinese, and Terry Kinny.

Jamil Jude

Jamil is a highly accomplished director, producer, playwright and dramaturg focusing on bringing socially relevant art to the community. Jamil is the Co-Founder of The New Griots Festival, which is dedicated to celebrating, advocating, and advancing the careers of emerging Black artists in the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area in Minnesota. Prior to joining the staff at True Colors, Jamil served as the Artistic Programming Associate at Park Square Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Jamil Jude | Associate Artistic Director

Jamil is a highly accomplished director, producer, playwright and dramaturg focusing on bringing socially relevant art to the community. Jamil is the Co-Founder of The New Griots Festival, which is dedicated to celebrating, advocating, and advancing the careers of emerging Black artists in the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area in Minnesota. Prior to joining the staff at True Colors, Jamil served as the Artistic Programming Associate at Park Square Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Jamil was a participant in the Mellon Foundation funded Leadership U, One-on-One theatre residency program and previously served as the National New Play Network (NNPN) Producer in Residence at Minneapolis’ Mixed Blood Theatre Company for three seasons. He remains an Affiliated Artist with NNPN. Before joining the staff at Mixed Blood, Jamil served as a New Play Producing Fellow at Arena Stage in Washington, DC and co-founded a culturally relevant theatre company, Colored People’s Theatre.

Mr. Jude has lead productions for Olney and Forum Theatre in Washington D.C.; Curious Theatre in Denver, Colorado; Park Square Theatre, History Theatre, Freshwater, Theatre in the Round, Stages Theatre Company, Daleko Arts and Lakeshore Players in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro. Jamil has also taught and directed at Augsburg College and the University of Minnesota.

As a playwright, Jamil was the 2013/14 Jerome Many Voices Mentee at The Playwrights’ Center, where he continues the role of affiliated writer. He has been commissioned and produced by CLIMB Theatre and D.C. Black Theatre Festival.

Chandra Stephens-Albright | Managing Director

Chandra Stephens-Albright is the Managing Director of Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company, where she co-leads the theatre with Artistic Director Kenny Leon. She is accountable for the Company’s operational excellence and financial sustainability. Her scope includes patron experience, fund development, ticket sales and marketing, and audience development via productions and educational programming. Prior to joining True Colors in 2017, Chandra served as Executive Director at C5 Georgia.

Chandra joined the nonprofit sector in 2016, following a successful 22-year career at The Coca-Cola Company, where she directed productive teams, tackled tough challenges, and led strategic initiatives that drove positive business results.

An active community leader, Chandra currently serves on the boards of Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company, the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership and The Alliance Theatre. She is a past board member of the Emory Alumni Board, the Emory Annual Giving Board, the Emory College Alumni Board, Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta, and the Multi-Cultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance.

Chandra is a member of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2005. A native Atlantan, Chandra graduated from Emory University with Chemistry degree. She was a Consortium for Graduate Studies in Management Fellow at the The Olin School of Business in St. Louis, Missouri, where she earned her MBA. She is married to Warren Albright.

Contact Info: 404-532-1901 (ext. 206)

Chandra Stephens Albright

Chandra Stephens-Albright is the Managing Director of True Colors Theatre Company, where she co-leads the theatre with Artistic Director Kenny Leon. She brings an incredible depth of collaborative leadership and a successful track record of innovative fund development to her role as financial ambassador for the theatre. She is known for her acumen in defining strategy, executing priorities, converting insights into initiatives, and managing diverse groups of stakeholders.

LaTeshia Ellerson

LaTeshia Ellerson joined Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company in 2007 as Development Associate and was promoted to Director of Development in 2013. In this position, she develops, oversees and implements the strategic fundraising plan for individual donors, corporations and foundations. LaTeshia was a participant in the 2014-15 SPARK Leadership Program, funded by American Express, The Joyce Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and administered by Theatre Communications Group.

LaTeshia Ellerson | Development Director

LaTeshia Ellerson joined Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company in 2007 as Development Associate and was promoted to Director of Development in 2013. In this position, she develops, oversees and implements the strategic fundraising plan for individual donors, corporations and foundations. LaTeshia was a participant in the 2014-15 SPARK Leadership Program, funded by American Express, The Joyce Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and administered by Theatre Communications Group.

In 2015 LaTeshia was chosen as one of twenty theatre practitioners to watch in American Theatre Magazine’s People to Watch. LaTeshia began her career as a development professional at United Way of Metropolitan Chicago. LaTeshia also serves as teaching artist for the National August Wilson Monologue Competition. LaTeshia holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago and Masters of Science in Urban Policy Studies/Nonprofit Leadership from Georgia State University in Atlanta.

Nikki Toombs | Director of Education

Nikki Toombs is a married mother of four, who hails from the “Magic City” of Birmingham, Alabama. She has been acting, or shall we say “entertaining” since the ripe age of eight. From singing “Hawaiian Rainbows” in the school recital to producing her own stage plays such as Lemons, this versatile virtuoso has captivated the hearts of many. Her quick wit, jovial sentiments and stern façade have made her a local favorite both on and off the stage. This 14 year educator has quite a range in her resume of instruction. She has taught her students everything from conjugating verbs to constructing sets. This unrelenting commitment to providing quality instruction warranted her Teacher of the Year honors in both the Gwinnett County( Meadowcreek High School) and Birmingham City School(Speech Arts ) systems. In 2015 she received STAR TEACHER; which recognizes teachers who have made the most profound impact on a student’s educational career. Additional honors in education are GCAE Inspiring Leader in the Arts Award, Atlanta Toyota’s Inspiring Teacher, Miraculous Mustang Achievement Award and multiple local school superlatives. Nikki was the “proud” director of the award winning Meadowcreek Mustang Players organization; directing over 30 plays during her 7 year tenure.

This theater arts director extends her expertise beyond the four walls of the traditional classroom. She is the founder of the Pink Pearls Project; a nonprofit which targets middle school at -risk girls and uses the arts modalities to educate, expose and entertain. She facilitated the STAR Quality acting camps for both East Metro Health and MHS Community school summer camps, and served as acting instructor for the TCP Sugarloaf Acting Academy. Nikki has also been commissioned to conduct acting workshops and seminars throughout the city. In 2006, she established Toombstone Productions, LLC. Her desire was to provide meaningful theatre that not only entertained, but was also impactful.

Nikki has also performed in various theatres in both Georgia and Alabama. She was cast in Iron Moon (Aurora Theatre/RTC,) 365 Days of Plays (Relativity Theatre Concern) Settling Sophia (Southwest Arts Center) For Colored Girls…(Dawson Theatre) and My Children My Africa(Birmingham Rep Theatre) She is a proud graduate of Alabama A & M University and has a master’s in arts-integrated curriculum from Lesley University.

Nikki Toombs

Nikki Toombs is a married mother of four, who hails from the “Magic City” of Birmingham, Alabama. She has been acting, or shall we say “entertaining” since the ripe age of eight. From singing “Hawaiian Rainbows” in the school recital to producing her own stage plays such as Lemons, this versatile virtuoso has captivated the hearts of many. Her quick wit, jovial sentiments and stern façade have made her a local favorite both on and off the stage. This 14 year educator has quite a range in her resume of instruction. She has taught her students everything from conjugating verbs to constructing sets. This unrelenting commitment to providing quality instruction warranted her Teacher of the Year honors in both the Gwinnett County (Meadowcreek High School) and Birmingham City School(Speech Arts ) systems.

Shana Bagley

Shana Bagley is the Marketing Director of True Colors Theatre Company. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership with a focus on nonprofit leadership from Mercer University. She found her passion for nonprofit during her time with C5 Georgia, a youth leadership organization whose mission is to inspire high-potential youth from risk-filled environments to pursue personal success and to become role-models for others. While at C5 Georgia, Shana developed and executed a strategic marketing plan, growing their online presence and engaging stakeholders through meaningful communication. Over the course of six years, Shana worked to maximize the impact that C5 Georgia program had on the students as well as to optimize the value C5 Georgia students created in the world.

Shana Bagley | Director of Marketing

Shana Bagley is the Marketing Director of True Colors Theatre Company. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership with a focus on nonprofit leadership from Mercer University. She found her passion for nonprofit during her time with C5 Georgia, a youth leadership organization whose mission is to inspire high-potential youth from risk-filled environments to pursue personal success and to become role-models for others. While at C5 Georgia, Shana developed and executed a strategic marketing plan, growing their online presence and engaging stakeholders through meaningful communication. Over the course of six years, Shana worked to maximize the impact that C5 Georgia program had on the students as well as to optimize the value C5 Georgia students created in the world.

Shana is an proponent of continued professional development and serves on the board of Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta, where she works toward advancing the careers of young professionals in metro-Atlanta through networking and professional development opportunities. Shana is member of Georgia Center for Nonprofit’s High Potential Diverse Leaders 2015 cohort, as well as the Association of Fundraising Professionals Diversity Fellows 2016 cohort.

Shana is a native metro-Atlanta, an alumnus of Emory University, and currently lives in College Park with her husband and two daughters.

Lisa L. Watson | Production Manager

Lisa L. Watson an Atlanta native, received her undergraduate degree from Clark Atlanta University and went on to pursue graduate studies at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts in Scenic Design. While in NY she worked with the Negro Ensemble Company, New Federal Theatre, Crossroads Theatre and Diane McIntyre’s Sounds in Motions among others. Returning to Atlanta in 1992 she joined Jomandi Productions as Production Manager, a position she held for 10 years.

Most recent projects – “90 Years-Birthday Celebration for Dr. Joseph E. Lowery” , “MLK – A Monumental Life” for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity for the unveiling of the King Memorial in Washington DC with Creative Eye Productions and “A Bluesman in the Life of the Mind” celebrating the retirement of Cornel West from Princeton University at the McCarter Theatre.

Lisa L Watson

Lisa L. Watson, an Atlanta native, received her undergraduate degree from Clark Atlanta University and went on to pursue graduate studies at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts in Scenic Design. While in NY she worked with the Negro Ensemble Company, New Federal Theatre, Crossroads Theatre and Diane McIntyre’s Sounds in Motions among others. Returning to Atlanta in 1992 she joined Jomandi Productions as Production Manager, a position she held for 10 years.

Kristen Parker

Kristen Parker is True Colors Theatre’s Marketing Manager. Originally from Alabama, Kristen received a Communication Arts degree in theatre at the University of North Alabama. Upon graduating, she left to pursue acting and management work in New York City. After 12 years in the city, she found her way back south to Atlanta where she joined the Alliance Theatre’s off-site season as assistant house manager for two years. Kristen enjoys reading, athletics, and writing, where she also excels.

Kristen Parker | Marketing Manager

Kristen Parker is True Colors Theatre’s Marketing Manager. Originally from Alabama, Kristen received a Communication Arts degree in theatre at the University of North Alabama. Upon graduating, she left to pursue acting and management work in New York City. While in New York she was fortunate to intern and work on multiple On and Off-Broadway productions as well as hold a 7-year career in finance with Lincoln Center Theatre. After 12 years in the city, she found her way back south to Atlanta where she joined the Alliance Theatre’s off-site season as assistant house manager for two years. Kristen enjoys reading, athletics, and writing, where she also excels.

Erika Heard-Robinson | Education Assistant/Coordinator

Erika is a devoted mother of two teenagers. She is a native of Gadsden, Alabama. She holds a Master’s Degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from Alabama A&M University, however, Erika has always had a love for the arts. While working as a Communication Specialist in the public schools, she incorporated many of her natural born acting techniques into helping students increase their expressive communication skills.

Throughout her life, she has soared and achieved many of her goals. In 2013, Erika established Akire Communications. She has written, directed and acted in stage plays such as MICHELLE, IT’S NOT MY CALL and I’M NOT GIVING MY BLACK BACK to name a few. She also wrote, cast and produced the YouTube Web Series entitled THE BATTLES TV SHOW. Erika also is the author of the book ROOM 516—When Life Deals You a Raw Hand. She has worked with many playwrights, directors and actors/actresses on various stages. Erika has also served as production assistant on many theatre and film sets and currently enjoys her job as Educational Assistant/Coordinator here at True Colors Theatre Company which she absolutely adores!

Erika Heard-Robinson

Erika is a devoted mother of two teenagers. She is a native of Gadsden, Alabama. She holds a Master’s Degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from Alabama A&M University, however, Erika has always had a love for the arts. While working as a Communication Specialist in the public schools, she incorporated many of her natural born acting techniques into helping students increase their expressive communication skills.

Kenny Leon

Founder & Artistic Director

Kenny Leon (Director) is a Tony Award winning Broadway and film director. His Broadway credits include the 2014 revival of A Raisin in the Sun (Tony Award Winner for Best Direction of a Play and Best Revival), The Mountaintop starring Samuel L. Jackson and Angela Bassett, Stick Fly produced by Alicia Keys, August Wilson’s Fences (which garnered ten Tony nominations and won three Tony Awards including Best Revival), the 2004 revival of A Raisin in the Sun with Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs, Gem of the Ocean, Radio Golfand the 2014 premiere of Holler If Ya Hear Me, a new musical inspired by the lyrics of Tupac Shakur. Leon’s recent film work includes “In My Dreams” for Hallmark Hall of Fame, “The Watsons go to Birmingham” for Walden Media and Hallmark, and the Sony and Lifetime TV adaptation of “Steel Magnolias”. Leon was awarded the 2010 Julia Hansen Award for Excellence in Directing by the Drama League of New York.

Kenny Leon | Founder & Artistic Director

Kenny Leon (Director) is a Tony Award winning Broadway and film director. His Broadway credits include the 2014 revival of A Raisin in the Sun (Tony Award Winner for Best Direction of a Play and Best Revival), The Mountaintop starring Samuel L. Jackson and Angela Bassett, Stick Fly produced by Alicia Keys, August Wilson’s Fences (which garnered ten Tony nominations and won three Tony Awards including Best Revival), the 2004 revival of A Raisin in the Sun with Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs, Gem of the Ocean, Radio Golf and the 2014 premiere of Holler If Ya Hear Me, a new musical inspired by the lyrics of Tupac Shakur. Leon’s recent film work includes “In My Dreams” for Hallmark Hall of Fame, “The Watsons go to Birmingham” for Walden Media and Hallmark, and the Sony and Lifetime TV adaptation of “Steel Magnolias”. Leon was awarded the 2010 Julia Hansen Award for Excellence in Directing by the Drama League of New York.

Prior to co-founding True Colors Theatre Company, he served 11 years as Artistic Director of The Alliance Theatre, where he produced the premieres of Disney’s Elaborate Lives: The Legend of Aida, Pearl Cleage’s Blues for an Alabama Sky and Alfred Uhry’s The Last Night of Ballyhoo. Other directorial credits include Toni Morrison’s opera Margaret Garner, the world premiere of Flashdance: The Musical, and the complete August Wilson Century Cycle at the Kennedy Center. He has directed extensively throughout the US, including Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, Boston’s Huntington Theatre, Baltimore’s Center Stage, Los Angeles’ Center Theatre Group and New York’s Public Theatre. Mr. Leon is an alumnus of Clark Atlanta University.

Jane Bishop

Co-Founder

In Loving Memory we will always remember Jane. We are all blessed that she launched True Colors with her longtime friend and colleague, Kenny Leon. Her dream was a theater that looks like the world, and her best and favorite work is making people bigger and things work better. We continue to work to make these dreams come true and make Jane proud.

Jane received an MA in Theatre Education and an MFA in Directing from Illinois State University where she studied in a class of aspiring actors and directors, which included John Malkovitch, Laurie Metcalf, Gary Sinese, and Terry Kinny.

Jane Bishop | Co-Founder

In Loving Memory we will always remember Jane. We are all blessed that she launched True Colors with her longtime friend and colleague, Kenny Leon. Her dream was a theater that looks like the world, and her best and favorite work is making people bigger and things work better. We continue to work to make these dreams come true and make Jane proud.

Jane received an MA in Theatre Education and an MFA in Directing from Illinois State University where she studied in a class of aspiring actors and directors, which included John Malkovitch, Laurie Metcalf, Gary Sinese, and Terry Kinny.

During her career in theater, she was a teacher, director, stage manager, production manager, general manager, and managing director. Among the theatres and projects where she served as production manager were Just Us Theatre, Imaginary Theatre, Company Showcase Cabaret, Theater of the Stars, and Atlanta Writers in Concert, all in Atlanta and The San Jose Repertory Company in California. For seven years she was production manager of the Arts Festival of Atlanta and two years was co-producing director. She was production manager for First Night Atlanta, the New Year’s Eve celebration in Midtown Atlanta. Jane served as project manager for a variety of national and international events such as the 1996 Olympics’ Victory Ceremonies and The Coca-Cola Centennial Celebration. She was the Alliance Theater’s project manager for Elaborate Lives: The Story of Aida, an Alliance/Disney co-production of a new musical by Elton John and Tim Rice.

For nine years Jane served as General Manager of the Alliance Theatre where she worked with Managing Director Edith Love and Artistic Director Kenny Leon. It was during this time that she and Edith initiated a team leadership approach to the earned and contributed revenue aspects of the theatre, which resulted in a staff process of articulating values inherent in the Alliance.

In 1999, Jane became Managing Director of the Prince Music Theater in Philadelphia. She directed the areas of finance, administration, production, marketing, and the newly renovated 450-seat theatre. Her goal there was to create a stable, experienced, and inspired staff and advance the artistic vision of the Prince.

She taught stage management at Georgia State University and theatre administration at La Grange College and consulted with Dallas Theater Center, Indiana Repertory Theatre, and the National Black Arts Festival.

Jamil Jude

Associate Artistic Director

Jamil is a highly accomplished director, producer, playwright and dramaturg focusing on bringing socially relevant art to the community. Jamil is the Co-Founder of The New Griots Festival, which is dedicated to celebrating, advocating, and advancing the careers of emerging Black artists in the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area in Minnesota. Prior to joining the staff at True Colors, Jamil served as the Artistic Programming Associate at Park Square Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Jamil Jude | Associate Artistic Director

Jamil is a highly accomplished director, producer, playwright and dramaturg focusing on bringing socially relevant art to the community. Jamil is the Co-Founder of The New Griots Festival, which is dedicated to celebrating, advocating, and advancing the careers of emerging Black artists in the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area in Minnesota. Prior to joining the staff at True Colors, Jamil served as the Artistic Programming Associate at Park Square Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Jamil was a participant in the Mellon Foundation funded Leadership U, One-on-One theatre residency program and previously served as the National New Play Network (NNPN) Producer in Residence at Minneapolis’ Mixed Blood Theatre Company for three seasons. He remains an Affiliated Artist with NNPN. Before joining the staff at Mixed Blood, Jamil served as a New Play Producing Fellow at Arena Stage in Washington, DC and co-founded a culturally relevant theatre company, Colored People’s Theatre.

Mr. Jude has lead productions for Olney and Forum Theatre in Washington D.C.; Curious Theatre in Denver, Colorado; Park Square Theatre, History Theatre, Freshwater, Theatre in the Round, Stages Theatre Company, Daleko Arts and Lakeshore Players in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro. Jamil has also taught and directed at Augsburg College and the University of Minnesota.

As a playwright, Jamil was the 2013/14 Jerome Many Voices Mentee at The Playwrights’ Center, where he continues the role of affiliated writer. He has been commissioned and produced by CLIMB Theatre and D.C. Black Theatre Festival.

Chandra Stephens Albright

Managing Director

Chandra Stephens-Albright is the Managing Director of True Colors Theatre Company, where she co-leads the theatre with Artistic Director Kenny Leon. She brings an incredible depth of collaborative leadership and a successful track record of innovative fund development to her role as financial ambassador for the theatre. She is known for her acumen in defining strategy, executing priorities, converting insights into initiatives, and managing diverse groups of stakeholders.

Chandra Stephens-Albright | Managing Director

Chandra Stephens-Albright is the Managing Director of Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company, where she co-leads the theatre with Artistic Director Kenny Leon. She is accountable for the Company’s operational excellence and financial sustainability. Her scope includes patron experience, fund development, ticket sales and marketing, and audience development via productions and educational programming. Prior to joining True Colors in 2017, Chandra served as Executive Director at C5 Georgia.

Chandra joined the nonprofit sector in 2016, following a successful 22-year career at The Coca-Cola Company, where she directed productive teams, tackled tough challenges, and led strategic initiatives that drove positive business results.

An active community leader, Chandra currently serves on the boards of Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company, the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership and The Alliance Theatre. She is a past board member of the Emory Alumni Board, the Emory Annual Giving Board, the Emory College Alumni Board, Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta, and the Multi-Cultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance.

Chandra is a member of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2005. A native Atlantan, Chandra graduated from Emory University with Chemistry degree. She was a Consortium for Graduate Studies in Management Fellow at the The Olin School of Business in St. Louis, Missouri, where she earned her MBA. She is married to Warren Albright.

Contact Info: 404-532-1901 (ext. 206)

LaTeshia Ellerson

Development Director

LaTeshia Ellerson joined Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company in 2007 as Development Associate and was promoted to Director of Development in 2013. In this position, she develops, oversees and implements the strategic fundraising plan for individual donors, corporations and foundations. LaTeshia was a participant in the 2014-15 SPARK Leadership Program, funded by American Express, The Joyce Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and administered by Theatre Communications Group.

LaTeshia Ellerson | Development Director

LaTeshia Ellerson joined Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company in 2007 as Development Associate and was promoted to Director of Development in 2013. In this position, she develops, oversees and implements the strategic fundraising plan for individual donors, corporations and foundations. LaTeshia was a participant in the 2014-15 SPARK Leadership Program, funded by American Express, The Joyce Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and administered by Theatre Communications Group.

In 2015 LaTeshia was chosen as one of twenty theatre practitioners to watch in American Theatre Magazine’s People to Watch. LaTeshia began her career as a development professional at United Way of Metropolitan Chicago. LaTeshia also serves as teaching artist for the National August Wilson Monologue Competition. LaTeshia holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago and Masters of Science in Urban Policy Studies/Nonprofit Leadership from Georgia State University in Atlanta.

Nikki Toombs

Director of Education

Nikki Toombs is a married mother of four, who hails from the “Magic City” of Birmingham, Alabama. She has been acting, or shall we say “entertaining” since the ripe age of eight. From singing “Hawaiian Rainbows” in the school recital to producing her own stage plays such as Lemons, this versatile virtuoso has captivated the hearts of many. Her quick wit, jovial sentiments and stern façade have made her a local favorite both on and off the stage. This 14 year educator has quite a range in her resume of instruction. She has taught her students everything from conjugating verbs to constructing sets. This unrelenting commitment to providing quality instruction warranted her Teacher of the Year honors in both the Gwinnett County (Meadowcreek High School) and Birmingham City School(Speech Arts ) systems.

Nikki Toombs | Director of Education

Nikki Toombs is a married mother of four, who hails from the “Magic City” of Birmingham, Alabama. She has been acting, or shall we say “entertaining” since the ripe age of eight. From singing “Hawaiian Rainbows” in the school recital to producing her own stage plays such as Lemons, this versatile virtuoso has captivated the hearts of many. Her quick wit, jovial sentiments and stern façade have made her a local favorite both on and off the stage. This 14 year educator has quite a range in her resume of instruction. She has taught her students everything from conjugating verbs to constructing sets. This unrelenting commitment to providing quality instruction warranted her Teacher of the Year honors in both the Gwinnett County( Meadowcreek High School) and Birmingham City School(Speech Arts ) systems. In 2015 she received STAR TEACHER; which recognizes teachers who have made the most profound impact on a student’s educational career. Additional honors in education are GCAE Inspiring Leader in the Arts Award, Atlanta Toyota’s Inspiring Teacher, Miraculous Mustang Achievement Award and multiple local school superlatives. Nikki was the “proud” director of the award winning Meadowcreek Mustang Players organization; directing over 30 plays during her 7 year tenure.

This theater arts director extends her expertise beyond the four walls of the traditional classroom. She is the founder of the Pink Pearls Project; a nonprofit which targets middle school at -risk girls and uses the arts modalities to educate, expose and entertain. She facilitated the STAR Quality acting camps for both East Metro Health and MHS Community school summer camps, and served as acting instructor for the TCP Sugarloaf Acting Academy. Nikki has also been commissioned to conduct acting workshops and seminars throughout the city. In 2006, she established Toombstone Productions, LLC. Her desire was to provide meaningful theatre that not only entertained, but was also impactful.

Nikki has also performed in various theatres in both Georgia and Alabama. She was cast in Iron Moon (Aurora Theatre/RTC,) 365 Days of Plays (Relativity Theatre Concern) Settling Sophia (Southwest Arts Center) For Colored Girls…(Dawson Theatre) and My Children My Africa(Birmingham Rep Theatre) She is a proud graduate of Alabama A & M University and has a master’s in arts-integrated curriculum from Lesley University.

Shana Bagley

Director of Marketing

Shana Bagley is the Marketing Director of True Colors Theatre Company. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership with a focus on nonprofit leadership from Mercer University. She found her passion for nonprofit during her time with C5 Georgia, a youth leadership organization whose mission is to inspire high-potential youth from risk-filled environments to pursue personal success and to become role-models for others. While at C5 Georgia, Shana developed and executed a strategic marketing plan, growing their online presence and engaging stakeholders through meaningful communication. Over the course of six years, Shana worked to maximize the impact that C5 Georgia program had on the students as well as to optimize the value C5 Georgia students created in the world.

Shana Bagley | Director of Marketing

Shana Bagley is the Marketing Director of True Colors Theatre Company. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership with a focus on nonprofit leadership from Mercer University. She found her passion for nonprofit during her time with C5 Georgia, a youth leadership organization whose mission is to inspire high-potential youth from risk-filled environments to pursue personal success and to become role-models for others. While at C5 Georgia, Shana developed and executed a strategic marketing plan, growing their online presence and engaging stakeholders through meaningful communication. Over the course of six years, Shana worked to maximize the impact that C5 Georgia program had on the students as well as to optimize the value C5 Georgia students created in the world.

Shana is an proponent of continued professional development and serves on the board of Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta, where she works toward advancing the careers of young professionals in metro-Atlanta through networking and professional development opportunities. Shana is member of Georgia Center for Nonprofit’s High Potential Diverse Leaders 2015 cohort, as well as the Association of Fundraising Professionals Diversity Fellows 2016 cohort.

Shana is a native metro-Atlanta, an alumnus of Emory University, and currently lives in College Park with her husband and two daughters.

Lisa L Watson

Production Manager

Lisa L. Watson an Atlanta native, received her undergraduate degree from Clark Atlanta University and went on to pursue graduate studies at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts in Scenic Design. While in NY she worked with the Negro Ensemble Company, New Federal Theatre, Crossroads Theatre and Diane McIntyre’s Sounds in Motions among others. Returning to Atlanta in 1992 she joined Jomandi Productions as Production Manager, a position she held for 10 years.

Lisa L. Watson | Production Manager

Lisa L. Watson an Atlanta native, received her undergraduate degree from Clark Atlanta University and went on to pursue graduate studies at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts in Scenic Design. While in NY she worked with the Negro Ensemble Company, New Federal Theatre, Crossroads Theatre and Diane McIntyre’s Sounds in Motions among others. Returning to Atlanta in 1992 she joined Jomandi Productions as Production Manager, a position she held for 10 years.

Most recent projects – “90 Years-Birthday Celebration for Dr. Joseph E. Lowery” , “MLK – A Monumental Life” for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity for the unveiling of the King Memorial in Washington DC with Creative Eye Productions and “A Bluesman in the Life of the Mind” celebrating the retirement of Cornel West from Princeton University at the McCarter Theatre.

Kristen Parker

Marketing Manager

Kristen Parker is True Colors Theatre’s Marketing Manager. Originally from Alabama, Kristen received a Communication Arts degree in theatre at the University of North Alabama. Upon graduating, she left to pursue acting and management work in New York City. After 12 years in the city, she found her way back south to Atlanta where she joined the Alliance Theatre’s off-site season as assistant house manager for two years. Kristen enjoys reading, athletics, and writing, where she also excels.

Kristen Parker | Marketing Manager

Kristen Parker is True Colors Theatre’s Marketing Manager. Originally from Alabama, Kristen received a Communication Arts degree in theatre at the University of North Alabama. Upon graduating, she left to pursue acting and management work in New York City. While in New York she was fortunate to intern and work on multiple On and Off-Broadway productions as well as hold a 7-year career in finance with Lincoln Center Theatre. After 12 years in the city, she found her way back south to Atlanta where she joined the Alliance Theatre’s off-site season as assistant house manager for two years. Kristen enjoys reading, athletics, and writing, where she also excels.

Erika Heard-Robinson

Education Assistant/Coordinator

Erika is a devoted mother of two teenagers. She is a native of Gadsden, Alabama. She holds a Master’s Degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders from Alabama A&M University, however, Erika has always had a love for the arts. While working as a Communication Specialist in the public schools, she incorporated many of her natural born acting techniques into helping students increase their expressive communication skills.

Kristen Parker | Marketing Manager

Kristen Parker is True Colors Theatre’s Marketing Manager. Originally from Alabama, Kristen received a Communication Arts degree in theatre at the University of North Alabama. Upon graduating, she left to pursue acting and management work in New York City. While in New York she was fortunate to intern and work on multiple On and Off-Broadway productions as well as hold a 7-year career in finance with Lincoln Center Theatre. After 12 years in the city, she found her way back south to Atlanta where she joined the Alliance Theatre’s off-site season as assistant house manager for two years. Kristen enjoys reading, athletics, and writing, where she also excels.

Past Interns

Summer 2018

Dayandra De Miranda-Leão

Dayandra De Miranda-Leão | Production/Education Intern

School: Indiana University South Bend

School Year: Junior

Major: BFA in Theatre with concentration in Performance

Why did you choose True Colors? “I chose Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company because of the emphasis on bringing truth and clarity to the arts and realizing the value in our own distinct voice and color. I know that working in the various departments that True Colors has to offer will do nothing but strengthen my appreciation for the dozens of hands that have a role in shaping how a production comes to life. Another big motivator for me was the celebration of diversity here, where the stories of African-Americans and other world cultures are able to shine. As a Latina actress, that message spoke to me because I believe that we should embrace the things that make us special rather than dividing ourselves up by what makes us different.”

J. Gino Cyrus

J. Gino Cyrus | Marketing Intern

School: Bethune-Cookman University

Major: Mass Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations and Advertising

Year: Senior

Why did you choose True Colors?

“Due to having the desire to enhance my marketing skills, I chose to intern at Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company. As prestigious of a program that it is, this internship provides me the epitome of an opportunity to fulfill my vast thirst for knowledge.”

Joshua Turner

Joshua Turner | Dramaturgy/Production Intern

School: Albany State University

Year: Sophomore

Major: Theatre & Political Science

Why did you choose True Colors? “I have spent the most joyous days of my life portraying the lives of others by acting. I believe that healing can take place with the right energy given from performing but only truthful acting. At Kenny Leon’s True Colors theatre, from the staff to the actors, real stories are effectively presented. I am astonished by the amazing work put out by the company. I am curious to find out what personality or what work ethic in needed to create such magic. I admire the people who have represented Kenny Leon’s True Colors theatre, from them performing to the way they treat others. I want to witness their greatness and find my own.”

Lauren Covington

Lauren Covington | Production Intern

School: University of Georgia

Year: Sophomore

Major: Music Education with a concentration in Voice

Why did you choose True Colors? “Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre produces amazing shows that are fueled by a motive to impact those who experience their art. However, Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre has a foundation that promotes giving and reaching out to the youth community. When representatives(Ms. Nikki and other teaching artists) came to my high school and interacted and educated our students on theatre arts, they developed an environment of creative breakthrough. In such a short amount of time, the True Colors representatives were able to transform a group of passionate students into determined theatre artists with a purpose. I became interested in the True Colors Theatre when I realized that behind every great representative was a team collaborating together for the same cause as each department”

Taylor Courtney

Taylor Courtney | Management/Development Intern

School: University of Texas Austin

Year: Senior

Major: BFA in Theatre Studies

Why did you choose True Colors?

I am a Senior, B.F.A. Theatre Studies major at The University of Texas at Austin obtaining an Arts Administration minor, Business minor, Sports Media Certificate, and Texas K-12th Teaching Certificate. As a person aspiring to open her own Performing Arts School, deeply rooted in presenting African American and other minority works onstage, choosing Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company gives me the opportunity to learn from a company creating work I want to create.

Mason Livers

Mason Livers | Education Intern

Year: Junior

School: Catawba College

Major: Theatre Education Major

Why did you choose True Colors? I chose True Colors because I wanted to expand my knowledge on educational theatre. I was offered an internship at another theatre company and one of my professors told me that I should choose True Colors over the other. He felt that even though it’s farther from home, True Colors would have opened up more opportunity. It’s about getting out of that comfort zone and exploring your options and taking on greater challenges.

Nami Ana

Nami Ana | Development/Management Intern

School: Point Park University

Year: Sophomore, Class of 2021

Major: BFA Acting

Why did you choose True Colors?

“Why I chose TCTC: I chose True Colors Theatre Company because True Colors is constantly producing content that is diversifying theatre and gives an audience to voices that are not traditionally heard- which is what I want to do as an artist.”

Lauren E. King

Lauren E. King | Marketing Intern

School: University of Georgia

Year: Senior

Major: BA in Theatre & ABJ in Advertising

Why did you chose True Colors? “From the time that I was young through my first year of college, I actively searched for people who looked like me on TV and on the stage. When I did see people, they were often the “token” or played as a stereotype. As an artist, I’ve made it a goal to demonstrate and encourage honest portrayals of the Black/African American experience. Kenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company consistently delivers authentic work and is actively and accurately repainting the image of African American Domestic Realism, and I am sure it will continue to do so well into the future. I chose this company because I wanted to be a part of that. I hope to learn and hone the skills it takes to produce professional quality theatre.”

Trueasia Magnetic

Tatiana Webster | Education/Production Intern

School: Clayton State University

Status: Junior

Major: Performing Art with a concentration and a minor in Film

Why did you choose True Colors? “My momma always told me, ‘Birds of a feather flock together’. So, I not only chose TCTC because it is a familiar place in my community and it is a place where I see theatre to be entertained, but also because it is a place where the stories that they tell are relateable to me, and others like me. The stories they produce and display to the world, impact people in a way where they are inspired, driven, and motivated to speak up, speak out, and act on injustices in our community. They address topics that we are afraid to speak about, and the trials and tribulations of the past, the present, and the future for people of color. They represent more than just putting actors on a stage to put on a show. To me, they represent empowerment, transparency of our humanity, and awareness. I wanted to be a part of something greater than myself and to impact people of color and the world in the same extent.”

Tatiana Webster

J. Gino Cyrus | Marketing Intern

Name: Tatiana Webster

School: Boston University School of Theatre

Major: Theatre Arts/Acting

Why did you choose True Colors Theatre? Growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood in Gwinnett County, Georgia, it was challenging to find my artistic voice in a community where I did not fit in. I am a first-generation American with parents from the Caribbean. I’ve always known that storytelling through film and theatre was something that I am passionate about, but the arts programs in my schools were very exclusive. The plays we did were written by and for a white cast which left me excluded. I struggled to find a voice as a Black woman in theatre until I discovered playwrights like August Wilson, Lynn Nottage, and Kirsten Greenidge. I understand the significance of expanding theatre to include voices from artists of color. The True Colors Theatre Company offers me the opportunity to immerse myself in inclusive non-profit theatre. I want to inspire and collaborate with young artists of color to find their voice through classic African-American theatre and new, diverse playwrights.”